Program Information

This program introduces students to the theory, knowledge and practical skills required to operate, maintain and manage steam and power equipment in industrial facilities. Throughout Canada, only certified Power (Operating) Engineers are permitted to operate, maintain and manage equipment such as boilers and refrigeration units.

Students enrolled in this program will train in Lambton College’s newly renovated Centre of Excellence in Energy & Bio-Industrial Technologies. The Centre offers state-of-practice technology laboratories and infrastructure to support learning and research in next-generation technologies in collaboration with industry.

The first three terms provides the academic curriculum needed to prepare for the TSSA 4th Class Operating Engineers 4A and 4B Certification exams. Students also receive nine months of steam time reduction towards the same certificate. Those who complete at least one approved co-op position will be credited with the final three months of practical steam time required for the 4th Class certification.

With 4th Class certification received, students can begin obtaining the 11 months of 3rd Class steam time reduction offered in terms 4-6.

Students have the option to exit the program after Term 3. With a co-op and successful completion of the TSSA 4A and 4B exams these students will be 4th Class power engineers and will be awarded a Power Engineering Technician diploma. Students who leave after Term 3 without a co-op will have a Power Engineering Technician diploma, but will not have completed the requirements to be a 4th Class power engineer.

Device Requirements

This program requires a mobile device (laptop or tablet).

Students entering this program are entering a Mobile Learning - Class+ Experience program. The Class+ Experience is exclusive to Lambton College, where technology inspires learning. Mobile devices allow students to experience learning both inside and outside the classroom, integrating educational apps and tools into class activities. See device requirements.

Recognized by Apple as a distinguished program for
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Admission Requirements

O.S.S.D. or equivalent with:
Grade 12 Mathematics C or U
Grade 12 English C or U
Grade 11 or 12 Chemistry C or U OR Grade 11 or 12 Physics C or U (both recommended, only one is required)

Note: Grade 12 Mathematics for College Technology or any Grade 12 U Mathematics is recommended. Grade 12 Foundations for College Mathematics (MAP4C) minimum final grade of 60%. If the program is highly competitive, students with Grade 12 Mathematics for College Technology or any Grade 12 U Mathematics will be given preference.

Mature applicants must be at least 19 years of age by the start of classes, be out of secondary school for at least one year and usually do not have a high school diploma. Mature applicant assessment for this program is available in the Counselling Department in the subject of English. The assessment(s) will demonstrate proficiency in required admission subjects. For all other admission requirements applicants must complete the required course(s) as listed above. For more information please contact the Counselling Department at ext. 3412. Academic admission requirements can be obtained through Academic Upgrading and Pre-Programs at Lambton College.

English Language Requirements

IELTS (International English Language Testing Score) of 6.0
- or -
IELTS of 5.5 + Completion of EAP-3106 (English for Academic Purposes) during first term of study.
-or-
Passed Lambton Institute of English placement test

Meeting the minimum English requirements does not guarantee admission. Students with higher English proficiency scores will receive priority in the admission assessment process. Not all students will qualify for EAP-3106 in place of the required IELTS test score.

Employment Opportunities

Credentials in power engineering are in high demand in many industries and types of businesses. Our graduates apply their skills to a wide variety of employment options in: power generation, chemical manufacturing, food processing, electrical generation, breweries, petroleum refining, pulp and paper, recreational facilities and institutions such as schools and hospitals. Power Engineers have the opportunity to increase their credentials throughout their career, progressing all the way to 1st Class Power Engineers.

Educational Pathways

See where you could go within Ontario to complete a degree once you've completed this Lambton College program.

Accreditations/Certifications

Power Engineering is not an apprenticeship trade; however, like apprenticeship trades, it is divided into levels of skill and training. The levels are referred to as classes with First Class being the highest level and Fourth Class being the lowest level. A combination of work experience and course completions followed by rigorous interprovincial examinations allows a power engineer to progress from one class to another. This program provides the background to complete the exams for inter-provincial certification as a Third Class Power Engineer.